The Ooni of Ife,Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has hosted the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), at the Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Palace’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses said Oyebamiji was accompanied by his running mate, Kayode Adereti, and the State APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal to seek royal and ancestral blessings before officially flagging off his campaign.
Oyebamiji explained that his decision to visit the palace was guided by the advice of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that the President emphasized the historical importance of Ile-Ife as the cradle of Yoruba civilization, citing how past leaders like Obafemi Awolowo gained success after receiving blessings from the ancient throne.
“I told Mr. President that I would be coming to your palace to seek your blessings before flagging off our campaign. He urged me to do so, emphasizing the importance of the blessings from this ancient throne,” Oyebamiji stated.
He further assured the monarch of his dedication to the state’s progress, adding that, “Ile-Ife is the source of our tradition, and its support is very vital. I assure you that I will support and prioritize the development of Ife and Osun State at large.”
In response, the Ooni commended the candidate’s humility and discipline, characterizing these as the virtues of a true leader. While maintaining the traditional institution’s neutrality in partisan politics, the monarch urged political stakeholders to prioritize peace and internal reconciliation.
“An Oba is not a politician, but we belong to everyone. We must embrace unity and avoid division. To those who may feel aggrieved within your ranks, I urge reconciliation. After receiving blessings, it is important to justify them with good deeds,” the Ooni advised.
The royal father thereafter offered special ancestral prayers and blessings for Oyebamiji, seeking divine guidance, wisdom, and success for him as he prepares for the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State.
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